Dr. Helen Bob, Technical Adviser to the Bayelsa State Government on the Girl Child, has praised the state government for its progress in implementing the Beijing Conference’s policies for action over the past 30 years. She highlighted significant strides in women’s political participation, economic empowerment, education, and the fight against gender-based violence.
Speaking on Talk to Bayelsa ahead of this year’s International Women’s Day celebration on Saturday, Dr. Bob acknowledged the achievements made but emphasized that emerging challenges still require collective action to drive transformative change. She reaffirmed Bayelsa women’s commitment to supporting the government in fast-tracking gender-responsive policies.
Despite the existing policy frameworks, Dr. Bob raised concerns about the implementation of the Beijing Declaration’s goals, particularly at the grassroots level. She noted that rural communities often face difficulties in benefiting from these policies due to weak enforcement and a lack of sustained efforts. She called on wives of former governors to continue their pet projects even after leaving office, ensuring continuity in initiatives aimed at uplifting women and girls.
Dr. Bob also urged the government and stakeholders to intensify efforts in addressing systemic inequalities, promoting women’s leadership, and enacting stronger laws to protect women’s rights. She emphasized the need for more targeted interventions to bridge the gaps that still exist in achieving gender equality in Bayelsa State.
As Bayelsa joins the global celebration of International Women’s Day, Dr. Bob’s remarks serve as a reminder that while progress has been made, sustained efforts and concrete actions are necessary to fully realize the commitments of the Beijing Conference and ensure a more inclusive society for women and girls.
